The temperature is finally cooling down, which calls for fall picnics outdoors. Fresh air, family, friends and food, what could be better? We have the scoop on where to go in and near Charlotte for a fall picnic, organized by neighborhood for your convenience.
As always please make sure to double-check that the parks are open or the specific amenities you need are operational before you head out.
Charlotte Area
Ballantyne Corporate Park – Ballantyne
Have lunch with the three 2,000-pound “Ballantyne Bulls” along with a dog park, swing set, benches, and picnic tables with a wide-open grassy area.
Dalton Green – Ballantyne
Located between the Boyle and Harris buildings, Dalton Green Park is a perfect place to have lunch. On the green, you can find eight tables and chairs with umbrellas for your convenience. For the golf lover, you can also find putters and balls in the putter caddy for your convenience, available Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Ballantyne’s Backyard – Ballantyne
South Charlotte’s newest community park has plenty of grassy areas to sit and enjoy a picnic.
Independence Park – Elizabeth
If you’re looking for a full family outing, Independence Park is the place to go. Start with a picnic on the green or at a picnic shelter equipped with grills. Then head to play sports in the many fields across the park. Don’t forget to take a walk on the trails or hit the playground before you leave.
Midwood Park – Plaza Midwood
Grass galore don’t forget about this little spot – shelter, restrooms, and a playground make it a fun place to take a lunch break.
Queens University of Charlotte – Myers Park
Access Selwyn avenue, enjoy your sammies on the beautiful campus.
Latta Park – Dilworth
Head to Latta Park before the weather cools down to picnic and play in the water sprayground.
Freedom Park – Dilworth
A fan-favorite, lounge by the lake and take a stroll after your picnic to enjoy the views. Park near Princeton or there and two access points on East Blvd.
Symphony Park – SouthPark
When not hosting Charlotte Symphony Orchestra concerts or other various outdoor events, Symphony Park in SouthPark is a great place to lay a picnic blanket down and enjoy food with family and friends.
Historic Rosedale – NoDa
Surrounded by a historic home, century-old trees, and beautifully kept flowers, Historic Rosedale is a perfect backdrop for an early fall picnic. Be sure to check back here for any events going on at the venue.
The Green – Uptown
Surrounded by beautiful landscaping, sit and enjoy views of Uptown at The Green. While you’re there, be sure to decode the messages throughout the park.
First Ward Park – Uptown
Picnic with city views on this 4-acre park. Very manageable and easy to access given it’s location between East 7th, 9th and Brevard Streets (just east of the light rail tracks).
Romare Bearden Park – Uptown
Another one in the city, this urban oasis offers plenty of room for everyone. If you’re driving, there are a lot of public parking garages nearby.
UNC Charlotte – University City
Relive those college days by heading to this beautiful campus and enjoying a picnic. Plenty of parking options at the parking decks are available.
Crowders Mountain – Kings Mountian, NC
This one is a little ways from Charlotte, but we promise it’s worth the drive. There’s plenty of places to picnic on the way up the mountain or save some snacks for the summit. Either way, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful views.
Lake Norman Area
Robbin’s Park – Cornelius, NC
This park is perfect if you’re looking for plenty of shade, a playground, public art, and plenty of parking.
Ramsey Creek Beach – Cornelius, NC
Picnic at the beach without having to drive to the coast at this manmade beach near Lake Norman. You’ll find plenty of shaded picnic tables for lunch or dinner as the sun sets over the lake. Bring your pup too for the dog park.
Jetton Park – Cornelius, NC
Surrounded by trees, this hiking trail doubles as a great place to sit and picnic with your family and furry friends.
Lake Norman State Park – Troutman, NC
Shady trails and secret spots by the water’s edge are perfect for a picnic.
Birkdale Village – Huntersville, NC
Surrounded by shopping, Birkdale has many green options for you to lay out a blanket for a picnic.
Latta Nature Preserve – Huntersville, NC
Enjoy lunch with lake views (Mountain Island Lake), and explore some of the prettiest trails in NC. Plenty of free parking.
Davidson College – Davidson, NC
Remanence on college days while taking in the beautiful scenery at Davidson College. Picnic among the towering trees and often outdoor art exhibitions.
South Carolina
Anne Springs Close – Rock Hill, SC
Lots of places to park and picnic including views of the dairy barn, ponds, lakes and native flowers. Daily admission is Monday through Thursday.
Cherry Park – Rock Hill, SC
This 68-acre park has plenty of scenic trails, a large playground, and numerous park amenities in case you forget your picnic blanket.
Kings Mountain – Blacksburg, SC
With the Ridgeline Trail that connects 3 parks and NC to SC, this park has it all from fishing and horse riding to perfect places to picnic.
Cheraw State Park – Cheraw, SC
Picnic in what feels like another time and place, paddle in Lake Juniper, keep an eye out for the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker, and enjoy views of the serene cypress swamp.
